Advertisement
<< Back to Survey
Getting Older

Write a Comment

I have read and agree to the terms and conditions in the Posting Rules*

15 Comments

EricS

Like Micheal, I have always refused to let this define me or rule my life. I see this as a man holding a gun to me....I'll do what it takes to stay alive but when that bastard turns his head I'm killing him. I set small goals. Seeing my girls (single full time dad here) through school as a big one. That was years ago now. Retired to a nice forested 5 acres, raise chickens, walk dogs in the woods, take my meds, shoot trap at a club........and refuse to give into the evil of HIV.

October 25, 2018 Wisconsin

HIVinTN

I wish my ASO(AIDS Service Org) would create some programs for LTS instead of just over 50. I've been pos since 21, I'm now 47. I'm dealing with many of the issues challenging those 50+. It feels like new services and programs are created for newly diagnosed or those over 50. The trend seems to assume all LTS are 50+.

October 10, 2018 Madison, TN

Michael

Diagnosed in 85 at 38. Refused to let it rule my life. Started AZT immediately. Only my partner knew, he was + too. Worked hard on my career and raising my income until 95 when my health required me to retire on disability just when Protease Inhibitors came out. My partner did not always take his meds and died in 2004. At 71, I am in pretty good health and happy. Life is good and I have excellent doctors. I have many very dear friends who know my status. Never felt sorry for myself.

October 4, 2018 Washington, DC

detroitmich60

When diagnosed in 1987, I was told by Dr. R. Caldwell (Northwestern-Chicago), I was told I'd be LUCKY to reach age 30, to STOP crying and go out and enjoy those 3 years. It's 2018 and here I am, Dr. Bob! ;)

September 28, 2018 South Carolina/rural Upstate

Heretoday

I have been poz since 1984. I was diagnosed in 1985 after finding out my buddy from a year earlier was on his deathbed. I've had male breast cancer, ongoing depression, cognitive issues, and have lost most of my hearing. There is suppose to be much support here in AZ, but I feel so lonely all the time. Just wish we had weekly get togethers for dinners, and to socialize. Isolation has become my new reality.

September 22, 2018 AZ

Krystlelites

No matter how long you have this disease the depression and the stigma never changes. To this day I have not found a negative person who can accept a relationship with a positive person. Maybe it is just straight men who are not willing to accept a positive woman.

September 20, 2018 Arizona

cityslickerfarmhand

Late 40s [1997] when the regular testing revealed likely very early detection because mere 6,000 VL, although a friend reminded of my "flu bout" a few months earlier. Initially declined HAART. Treating physician, with some concerning numbers, convinced to start regimen 2001. Yet throughout could be in total denial because other than lab reports, have suffered nothing believed attributable to HIV (although "#s" had reached lows/highs as AIDS defining). Finished 'work life" & into reg. SocSec.

September 18, 2018 VERY rural western Tennessee (no mobile svc)

Laura

I am 59, and have been living with HIV since 1987. I almost died in 1995 but rallied just in time to start antiretrovirals. I have been in a long term relationship since 2002. Sadly, I infected my partner during a break from my meds. We didnt even know until he was diagnosed with Non-Hodgekins Lymphoma, he is well today after treatment. Working for me is difficult, I exhaust easily and rely on SS, SSI, and Medicaid and Medicare. I fear for changes to any of these by our current administration.

September 18, 2018

Advertisement

Hot topics


POZ uses cookies to provide necessary website functionality, improve your experience, analyze our traffic and personalize ads. Our Privacy Policy

Manage

POZ uses cookies to provide necessary website functionality, improve your experience, analyze our traffic and personalize ads. By remaining on our website, you indicate your consent to our Privacy Policy and our Cookie Usage.